Add Row
Add Element
cropper
Realty News Journal
Add Element
  • Home
  • Categories
    • Real Estate News
    • Real Estate Agents
    • Technology
    • Marketing
    • Real Estate Associations
    • Mortgage
    • Luxury
  • Search
May 31.2025
2 Minutes Read

How Zown Is Revolutionizing California Down Payment Assistance

New platform aims to ease California down payment burden

California's Housing Dilemma: A Growing Challenge

As California's housing market continues to grapple with soaring prices, the burden of down payments remains a formidable barrier for many aspiring homeowners. For years, many middle-income earners have found themselves stuck in a rental cycle, unable to save enough funds to secure a down payment despite being well-employed. This reality is increasingly prevalent as average home prices in key cities, such as Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco, have skyrocketed, with some buyers now expected to save for as long as 20 years just to enter the market.

Introducing Zown: A New Solution for Homebuyers

In response to this pressing issue, a new real estate platform named Zown aims to pivot the narrative surrounding homeownership in California. Following its successful expansion in Canada, where it has already assisted over 250 homebuyers and facilitated more than $300 million in transactions, Zown has officially launched its services in the Golden State. The platform seeks to relieve some of the down payment pressures by redirecting a portion of the buyer's agent's commission—up to 2% of the home’s purchase price—directly to the buyer as an upfront “down payment boost.” This model can be a game changer for individuals looking to navigate California's competitive housing market.

Innovative Features Improving the Buying Process

One of Zown's most significant advantages is its integration of advanced technologies into the home buying process. The platform pairs buyers with licensed agents who utilize tools like artificial intelligence-powered pricing insights and predictive analytics, enabling a more streamlined and informed purchasing experience. These agents can overcome traditional bottlenecks, allowing buyers to schedule home tours on demand. Quick processing of pre-approvals—sometimes in under five minutes—also enhances flexibility and timeliness in the decision-making process.

Transforming Homeownership in California

According to Zown co-founder Rishard Rameez, the focus is on providing tangible support right at the start of the homebuying journey. As home prices and down payments continue to rise, Zown's model seeks not only to benefit buyers but also agents, who only retain 1% of the agent commission, transferring the remaining amount to help buyers. This shift fundamentally alters the traditional real estate support structure and lays the groundwork for new homeownership possibilities.

A Bright Future for First-Time Buyers?

While the challenges of California's housing market remain daunting, platforms like Zown are stepping in at a crucial moment. With predictions that housing prices will continue to trend upward, these innovative approaches may pave the way for more sustainable home ownership models. The real estate landscape is evolving, and it may produce a ripple effect that transforms the way individuals perceive the pathways to homeownership.

In summary, as Zown enhances its footprint in California, it is not merely providing a financial lifeline to prospective homeowners but potentially reshaping the entire real estate market. This could have profound implications for those struggling to break free from the renting cycle and illustrates the adaptability of the market in addressing critical needs.

Mortgage

1 Views

0 Comments

Write A Comment

*
*
Related Posts All Posts
07.27.2025

Dave Greenbaum Takes Chief Customer Officer Role to Enhance Client Engagement

Update New Role Signifies Customer-Centric Shift at MoxiWorks In a timely move reflecting its commitment to enhancing customer service, MoxiWorks has elevated Dave Greenbaum to the newly created position of Chief Customer Officer (CCO). This strategic promotion comes as part of the company’s ongoing efforts to refine its approach to client engagement and satisfaction in the competitive real estate technology landscape. Understanding the Importance of Customer Experience in Real Estate In an industry where relationships are paramount, having a dedicated executive focused solely on customer experience can be a game changer. As Greenbaum steps into his new role, he will oversee various initiatives that influence client satisfaction directly, managing support operations, and ensuring that the nearly 3,000 brokerages partnered with MoxiWorks, alongside over 400,000 real estate agents, receive unparalleled service. Proven Leadership in Client Engagement and Operational Excellence Greenbaum’s pathway to the CCO position is underpinned by his track record in customer engagement, originally joining MoxiWorks via the acquisition of ActivePipe in 2022. His previous roles within MoxiWorks showcase a wealth of operational expertise and an acute understanding of customer needs. Notably, his leadership has contributed to an impressive customer satisfaction score exceeding 95%, a clear indicator of his empathetic engagement style and operational innovation. The Power of Empathy in Leadership: A Closer Look CEO Eric Elfman praised Greenbaum for his “deep empathy for customers” and focus on “outcomes,” reflecting a growing recognition within the real estate sector of the need for compassionate and effective leadership. This empathetic approach not only enhances responsiveness but fosters long-term relationships that are crucial in sustaining the client’s trust and loyalty. Future Implications for MoxiWorks and Its Clients Greenbaum’s reference to helping clients grow their businesses speaks volumes about MoxiWorks' vision. By aligning product development and customer support teams more closely, MoxiWorks is setting the stage for an integrated service model that responds effectively to client needs. The overarching goal is to not just meet expectations but exceed them, creating a partnership rather than a transactional relationship. A Call for Real Estate Professionals to Connect As MoxiWorks continues to evolve under Greenbaum's leadership, real estate professionals should take note of these developments. Understanding the direction MoxiWorks is taking could provide valuable insights into how agents can better position themselves in a shifting market. The commitment to exceptional customer service is not just beneficial for MoxiWorks; it's an industry-wide trend that all agents should embrace to stay competitive. For real estate agents looking to adapt to these changes, engaging with MoxiWorks may lead to significant operational advantages, aligning service with the rising expectations of clients. It’s essential for agents to actively participate in discussions around service innovations and best practices initiated by platforms like MoxiWorks.

07.27.2025

Century 21 Expands Its Presence in Baltimore Real Estate Market

Update Century 21 Expands Its Footprint in Baltimore In a strategic move to enhance its presence in the competitive Baltimore real estate market, Century 21 Real Estate has welcomed a new affiliate into its network: Century 21 Advance Realty. Founded in 2005 by Terry Berkeridge, this brokerage has evolved significantly since its acquisition by Patrick Campbell in 2020. Now, under Campbell’s leadership, the firm aims to leverage the power of the Century 21 brand to bolster its growth and recruitment efforts. Strategic Leadership Amplifying Brand Value Patrick Campbell, who has a strong footing in the local market since joining Advance Realty in 2009, emphasizes the value that Century 21 brings to his operations. By aligning with one of the most recognized names in real estate, Campbell believes this partnership will enhance the service quality provided to clients and agents alike. “We’re incredibly proud to be the latest to join the C21 network,” Campbell stated, underlining the benefits of brand recognition, advanced training platforms, and technology resources. This Move Reflects a Thriving Local Market Located strategically in Bel Air, Maryland, the new office is ideally situated between Baltimore and Washington, D.C. This makes it particularly advantageous for catering to a broad array of clients, including families, retirees, and military personnel. The demand for housing in the region has remained quite robust due to the involvement of universities, healthcare facilities, and other major employers. As homebuyers from various backgrounds flock to the area, increased competition in the real estate sector makes affiliate partnerships like this one imperative for growth. Future Predictions: Recruitment and M&A Initiatives As Century 21 Advance Realty prepares to dive deeper into recruitment and potential mergers and acquisitions (M&A), this affiliation is positioned to accelerate these initiatives. Campbell is optimistic about the acquisition opportunities that will arise by leveraging the resources and support provided by Century 21. Real estate agents in Baltimore should anticipate new opportunities as these affiliations evolve. The Bigger Picture: Positive Implications for Agents The affiliation with Century 21 comes with benefits far beyond mere branding. Agents who join this network gain access to an extensive suite of marketing tools, lead generation systems, and training tailored to the nuances of the Baltimore real estate market. Those already in the industry will find that being associated with such a prestigious brand can mean greater trust and credibility among potential buyers. Impacts on the Broader Real Estate Environment The integration of Century 21's values and practices into Advance Realty signifies a broader trend in the real estate landscape—an increasing emphasis on collaboration through established networks. This not only enhances service levels but can also lead to a more cohesive marketplace where information sharing, best practices, and ecosystem support are prioritized. As Century 21 continues to grow its influence, real estate agents must stay informed and leverage these evolving dynamics. Those interested in learning more about the developments should connect with the newly affiliated office to discover how they can benefit from this growth.

07.26.2025

Home Prices Hit Record Highs, But Increased Inventory Offers Relief

Update Home Prices Reach New Heights Amid Inventory Growth In a surprising twist amidst ongoing economic concerns, home prices have surged to an all-time high, with new data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) revealing a year-over-year increase of just 2%. While this may seem alarming at first glance, the growth in housing inventory signifies a cooling off in what has been a blistering market over recent years. The Current State of Inventory The June report highlights an important development: total housing inventory has reached 1.53 million units, although this marks a slight decrease of 0.6% from May. However, compared to last year, this represents a notable 15.9% increase from June 2024. Unsold inventory now sits at a 4.7-month supply, reflecting an upward trend from 4.6 months in May and 4 months last June. This gradual uptick in inventory is crucial; it signals a more balanced market that can mitigate extreme price increases. Implications for Real Estate Agents For real estate agents, these shifts in the housing landscape underline the importance of understanding market trends deeply. The increase in inventory not only provides buyers with more options but also requires agents to adapt and strategize differently when it comes to marketing properties. Highlighting inventory levels, understanding seasonal fluctuations, and being well-versed in local market dynamics will be key to staying competitive. Successful agents can leverage this data to guide their clients effectively through this evolving market. Why 2025 Could Be a Game-Changer Despite prior fears of a housing crash akin to 2008, experts remain optimistic about the market's trajectory. The slow yet steady home-price growth alongside increased inventory suggests that the marketplace is healthier than it has been for years. The importance of monitoring these trends cannot be overstated. As we progress through 2025, the resilience shown in current statistics may lead to an easing of affordability issues, allowing more potential homeowners to consider purchasing. Actionable Insights for Navigating the Market As the landscape shifts, here are a few actionable insights for agents: Stay Informed: Keeping abreast of inventory changes will allow agents to present informed choices to clients. Emphasize Buyer Education: With prices stabilizing, it’s vital to educate buyers about market conditions and affordability options. Utilize Technology: Leveraging digital marketing tools can enhance visibility and reach to potential buyers who are navigating this evolving market. Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Homebuyers The fluctuations in home prices and inventory are indicative of a market that, while challenged, is trending towards recovery. Real estate professionals should take heart that the current conditions may not only stabilize but also provide opportunities for both buyers and sellers alike. Call to Action: For real estate agents, the key takeaway is to embrace this transition. Equip yourself with the latest market data, refine your strategies, and stay connected with your clients. This new equilibrium in the housing market might just be the springboard for helping more families find their dream homes.

Terms of Service

Privacy Policy

Core Modal Title

Sorry, no results found

You Might Find These Articles Interesting

T
Please Check Your Email
We Will Be Following Up Shortly
*
*
*